When travelling to Munich, the Bavarian National Museum is one not to miss out on. The Museum building itself was built during King Maximilian II in 1855, around the same time the Neuschwanstein Castle was built (the castle used as inspiration for the one in Disneyland). The interior of the museum is designed with thought given to the visitor’s experience of history. The exhibition includes entire rooms that have been moved to and recreated inside the museum.
Upon entering, the first thing to see is the 13th century religious art. There’s even a hall where the interior of a church with altarpieces is partially recreated. There is also an extensive collection of shining suites of armor and swords from around the same time, perfect for families with children who are fascinated with knights and castles. Moving on in history, the museum also has a display of decorative household items from the 16th and 17th century. Be sure to look out for the pineapple motifs on the furniture at the time reflecting high society’s fascination with the South American fruit.
Upstairs on the top floor, visitors can take a look at how fashion has changed through half millennia between the 13th and the 18th century. Though trends may change, the clothes of the clergy never change. A quick look at the two-story room with clergy items will reveal that not much has changed in terms of fashion for the clergy since the Middle Ages. Downstairs in the basement, it is highly recommended to take a look at the many detailed nativity scenes on display there. It is the perfect complement to your visits to the Neuschwanstein and Hochenschwangau Castles.
